According to reports, Joe Marler could be back in the England set-up in time for the Rugby World Cup.
The 28-year-old announced his retirement from the international game in September last year to considerable surprise.
He had 59 England caps to his name and was regarded as essential to the team as one of the two best loose-head props in the country.
Joe Marler, who retired from international rugby last year, has been named in England’s latest elite player squad.
— Alex Lowe (@AlexMLowe) June 19, 2019
Next stop the World Cup?https://t.co/uajK2uaa3d
However, The Times has reported that the loosehead, who was bang on form for Harlequins last season, has been named in the England elite player squad for the summer.
It is no surprise that Jones would want Marler available in case Mako Vunipola does not recover as quickly as expected.
Marler played against England earlier this month for the Barbarians at Twickenham and admitted he would consider making a return to the international arena in an ‘SOS scenario’.
“I wouldn’t be able to just walk up and just immerse myself in it all again,” Marler said.
“Boys have been f****** grafting for years. Not only has Mako been brilliant, but the boys who came in stepped up and proved their worth there.
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“If it was an SOS scenario it would definitely be something I’d consider but they’re not in an SOS scenario.
“Mako will be sweet, they’ve got Ben Moon, Ellis Genge and Alec Hepburn. They’ll go well.”
But it seems Marler might well have had a change of heart.
We will keep you up to date as and when the England Elite Player Squad is confirmed.